CHARLESTON — Former state Sen. Robert Karnes is seeking re-election to the West Virginia Senate, entering a Republican Primary contest against Jack Reger and incumbent Sen. Bill Hamilton.
Karnes, who previously served in the Senate from 2015 to 2018 and again from 2020 to 2024, said his campaign will focus on what he described as a record of conservative policy achievements, including tax reductions, support for school choice and backing of gun rights and religious liberty measures.
In a press release, Karnes pointed to his role as chair of the Senate Select Committee on Tax Reform and highlighted legislation passed during his tenure that reduced personal income tax rates. He also cited his involvement in advancing education initiatives such as the HOPE Scholarship program and legislation allowing microschools.
“West Virginia wins when government gets out of the way and the people get to work,” Karnes said.
Karnes further emphasized his support for anti-abortion legislation following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, as well as his work on the state’s Religious Freedom Restoration Act and efforts to expand constitutional carry laws.
“I’m honored by the trust you’ve placed in me. I’m asking for your vote so we can keep going… cutting taxes, defending life and liberty, protecting the Second Amendment, and putting parents back in charge of education.”
Looking ahead, Karnes said he would push to eliminate the state income tax, promote economic growth through regulatory changes, and expand school choice.
The 11th District race is expected to draw attention in the upcoming Republican Primary, with Hamilton seeking another term and Reger, a member of the Buckhannon City Council, also campaigning on issues including education and economic concerns.
